A tintype is a photograph made by exposing an image directly onto a sheet of metal that is blackened by painting, lacquering or enameling and is used as a support for a collodion photographic emulsion. Tintype photography began in the 1850's and requires the photographer to make an emulsion of collodion by hand to create the image. Traditionally, the image would have to be immediately exposed in camera to create a tintype.

A digital tintype is a one-of-a-kind tintype made from a digital file. These tintypes are made by first converting a digital file into a photographic negative that is then exposed in an enlarger. We use the same collodion and varnishing formulas that were created in the 1850's to make our digital tintypes. The only difference between our digital tintypes and an in camera tintype is that our tintypes are exposed from negatives. It is with this technology that we are able to convert uploaded digital files into negatives and then expose them directly onto a collodion coated silver sensitized metal plate.

It is simple! Start by selecting your size in our products section. We offer digital tintypes in three sizes, 4 x 5, 5 x 7, 8 x 10. From the product selection you will choose your plate style (black or rose gold). Proceed to check out! You will be prompted to upload your image upon checkout.

How will I upload my image?

After you select your size and place your order, you will upload your image on the confirmation page. Simply fill out the form as prompted and then attach your image. If you are uploading multiple images in a quantity order you will need to upload a zip file of all of your images. For example, you have selected 3 5x7 digital tintypes and have proceeded through the checkout. When uploading, you will be prompted to attach one file and will need to attach a zip file of all 3 image files for processing.

What do I get?

You will receive your digital tintype in the size and style you select delivered to the address provided boxed and ready to frame.

How long will it take to receive?

Because this is a handmade process, we make sure that each order is treated with the utmost care and hand each order one at a time. Your order will be delivered to you within 3-4 weeks of your purchase date, shipping free of charge. We also offer expedited service at an additional charge, you can choose this option at checkout. When you expedite your order it is processed and shipped to you in 5 business days (order on Monday before noon, receive the following Monday).

What kind of image works best?

All types of images translate perfectly into a tintype image. If you are able to upload a file that is 600 dpi, that will make the best tintype possible. Upload a tif as a zip file for best quality. If there is a problem with the file you upload, our staff will contact you directly. Uploaded images will darken about 15% when plated. If you have access to Photoshop or a similar editing program that provides the ability to manipulate the histogram, the image below is a rough guide for what to prepare in your file. Providing an image with a true white point (highlight) and true black point (shadow) as shown below will create the best quality tintype.

How long will my Digital Tintype last?

Your digital tintype has been made to last generations. To properly preserve, your tintype should be framed behind glass with the glass not touching the tintype.

Will it fade?

As with all photographs, your digital tintype should not be placed directly in the sun. We recommend that you preserve your image by properly framing your digital tintype. This will insure that your image will last for generations.

Still have questions? Contact Us We'll be happy to answer any questions you have.